By Mbongeni Ndlela
MBABANE – Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, has reiterated government’s steady commitment to balancing economic efficiency with local empowerment, particularly in the awarding of major infrastructure contracts funded through the African Development Bank.
Speaking during the Finance in Focus session, Rijkenberg tackled growing questions about the conditions attached to large-scale tenders, especially in relation to local contractor participation. He passionately explained the government’s approach to inclusive yet financially responsible development.
“In our latest road project, for example, we made sure that at least a third of the work is guaranteed to local contractors,” said the Minister. “This ensures that Emaswati benefit directly from the job opportunities and economic activity generated.”
While some voices have called for the splitting of large contracts to better accommodate small contractors, Rijkenberg outlined the hidden costs and risks of such an approach. He warned that dividing tenders could lead to higher government expenses due to duplication of supervision, equipment, and personnel—ultimately putting a heavier burden on taxpayers.
“We’ve seen it before, when projects failed because of over-fragmentation,” he said, referencing past projects like Tunusa. “It’s not just about participation, it’s about ensuring the job is completed efficiently, affordably, and to the highest standards.”
To level the playing field, the Minister highlighted alternative ways for local contractors to meet tender requirements, such as using insurance-backed guarantees instead of upfront cash. He emphasized that such financial mechanisms are designed to make participation more accessible without compromising project delivery.
Crucially, Rijkenberg clarified that the Ministry of Finance’s role is strictly to secure funding, while the specific contract terms and execution strategies are handled by the respective line ministries.
“We simply facilitate the finance,” he said. “The Ministry of Works, for example, works directly with the funders and sets the technical conditions. But I support the way they have managed this process, it’s the right thing for the country.”
In closing, the Finance Minister assured the public that the government has struck a prudent balance between affordability and inclusion, ensuring that Emaswati get the best value for money without sidelining local enterprise.
“We believe the outcome of this road project will be a success story for the nation, an example of how collaboration, clarity, and commitment can build a stronger Eswatini,” Rijkenberg concluded.
